Page 181 - DLIS402_INFORMATION_ANALYSIS_AND_REPACKAGING

Information Analysis and Repackaging

Notes 11. Arrangement: In this last step all entries are merged and arranged in a single alphabetical
sequence.
Example: The document entitled ‘Macbeth’ by William Shakespeare, having class number
O111,2J64,M will generate the following chain.
O = Literature (SL)
O1 = Indo European literature (USL)
O11 = Teutonic literature (USL)
O111 = English literature (SL)
O111, = (FL)
O111,2 = English drama (SL)
O111,2J64 = Shakespeare (SL)
O111,2J64, = (FL)
O111,2J64,M = Macbeth (SL)
Corresponding to these five sought links, the following subject heading or class index entries will
be generated by the above chain:
DRAMA, ENGLISH O11,2
ENGLISH, LITERATURE O111
LITERATURE O
MACBETH, SHAKESPEARE (William) (1564) O111,2J64, M
SHAKESPEARE (William) (1564) O111,2J64

Merits of Chain Indexing
1. This procedure, i.e., chain indexing can be applied with ease to any classification scheme
whose notational symbols indicate the subordination of each step of division e.g. CC,DDC,
etc.
2. Chain indexing saves the time of the indexer, as he makes use of the class number
provided by the classifier, thus, avoiding duplication of work, in analysing the document
and the formulation of class number.
3. Chain indexing provides alternative approaches through reverse rendering to its classified
file.
4. As chain procedure is based on the structure of the classification scheme and on the
terminology found in the schedules, its operation is speedy and semi-mechanical.
5. Chain procedure is economical, as it drops each term after it has been indexed, thus,
avoiding the permutation of component terms.
6. In case of chain indexing, only one index heading with complete subject formulation is
prepared for a specific document. Other entries are prepared by successive dropping of
terms serve successfully larger number of specific subjects. This provides the facility for
generic as well as specific searches.
7. Chain procedure is amenable to computerization. Programmes are being successfully
written to generate subject headings both from class numbers and feature headings
following the reverse rendering method.
8. Chain procedure may be used to derive indexes to classification schemes and books.
Similarly, it may be used in formulating headings necessary for guide cards on catalogue,
stock room guides, shelf guides, etc., in a systematic way.

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